How to: Build your own DIY “Animal” (Theo Jansen Strandbeest)

Theo Jansen demonstrated his famous “animal” inventions a few years ago at TED (video below). Essentially, these “animals” (dubbed Strandbeests) are driven entirely by the wind and use no electronics. The way they move is absolutely fascinating, so one DIYer created his own miniature Strandbeest and shared the plans with the world. Although the miniature version uses a small motor for locomotion, the unique walking mechanism is precisely replicated.

Each leg is comprised of 11 linkages which were designed using a special kinetic algorithm. While the full-scale versions are built using PVC, the mini version can be built using threaded rods, a few nuts, and acrylic. Check out the full build instructions, download the laser cutting plans, and create your own “animal” today!